Athens – “the city of Gods.” The capital and largest city of Greece, Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its history spans over 3,400 years, and is now regarded as a large cosmopolitan metropolis and central hub for the arts and philosophy, as well as being home to Plato’s Academy and Aristotle’s Lyceum.
With Athens being situated in the central Mediterranean, the summers are hot with long hours of sunshine, and temperatures averaging around 30 C (86 F) plus. Even within the coldest and wettest months (December and January), temperatures still reach a pleasant 10 C (50 F).
Athens International Airport, also called “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH/LGAV), is the primary international airport that serves the city of Athens and the region of Attica. Inflight catering for flights departing from Athens International Airport, and Tatoi Airport (LGTT), located north of Athens in Decelea, is available through the Air Culinaire Worldwide Network.
Exploring Athens, Greece
What a city to explore! Athens is full of history, culture and visually-stunning sights to see. To name a few of most popular attractions: The Acropolis, The Parthenon, The Temple of Hephaestus, The Erechtheion, Mount Lycabettus, Philopappos Hill and Flisvos Marina. The best way to explore the city is by foot or via the metro. For a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre, head over to the car-free streets of Plaka and Kolonaki, which offer picturesque ruins from the city’s Roman era, stylish cafes and restaurants, and charming archaeological walks with outstanding views.
If you have time to explore outside of the city-centre itself, take a train over to the artsy-industrial neighborhood of Gazi, which trends the modern face of Athens. You can find bars, nightclubs and cafeterias here. If you fancy a more relaxed day where you can recharge your batteries, head over to Marathon, where you can find some lovely beaches. Athens has a fantastic ferry network to the surrounding islands; Lesvos, Chios, Rhodes, Crete, Santorini and more. Many local travel tour operators run trips to the islands, and you will be able to find out more information within your hotel.
Cuisine in Athens, Greece
Athenians are generally very sociable, hospitable and relaxed people, and they love to enjoy life to the full! Food is a main focus of daily life. Some must-try dishes include the Greek hamburger (souvlaki). Which are grilled kebabs of beef, lamb, pork or chicken that are wrapped in pita bread with tomatoes, onions and lettuce. They are dipped in a yogurt flavored with garlic and cucumber, called “tzatziki.” Many of the best souvlaki shops in Athens are found along Mitropoleos Street. A must-try dessert is baklava, a rich pastry with nuts and honey/syrup between the layers.
The local currency is, of course, the EURO. One USD equates to around 0.93EU. As always, fly safe, enjoy the sights, and take in the magical wonders of one of the oldest cities in the world!
Questions?
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